Wednesday, October 24, 2012

3 Reasons to Label Genetically Engineered Foods

Prop 37 is a simple label for genetically engineered foods. Also called GMOs, these are plants or animals that have had their DNA artificially altered by genes from other plants, animals, viruses or bacteria, in ways that can’t occur in nature. Here are 3 reasons why we need to label genetically engineered foods.1. We have a right to know what we're eating and feeding our families. The right to know and the right to choose are fundamental American values; and 90% of Americans want to know if their food is genetically engineered. More than 50 other countries already require labels on genetially engineered food. California consumers have a right to this information too. If you think we have a right to know what's in our food, vote yes on Prop 37. 2. Gambling with our health and our children’s health. A growing body of peer-reviewed studies link genetically engineered foods to allergies and other health problems. Despite these warnings, long-term health studies have not been conducted, and the US FDA requires no health or safety testing -- even though the World Health Organization and the American Medical Association say testing should be mandatory. The companies claim their genetically engineered foods are safe, but many people are skeptical of these studies because the companies are allowed to control the science and suppress research. While we wait for independent studies, let's label genetically engineered foods so we have the right to choose for ourselves whether to take these risks. 3. Genetic engineering causes serious environmental problems. Environmental problems are well documented, including biodiversity loss, a massive increase in pesticide use, the emergence of super weeds and super bugs that are threatening millions of acres of farmland, and the unintentional contamination of organic and non-GMO crops.The bottom line: There are many reasons why people might want to avoid genetically engineered foods, including religious reasons. One thing we all agree on is that we have a right to know what's in the food we're eating and feeding our families. Prop 37 is a chance to bring fairness to our food system and restore our basic democratic rights.Did you know? The pesticide companies are spending A Million Dollars a Day to confuse voters about Prop 37! Please share this link: Don't Let Monsanto Buy Your Vote!3 things you can do today to help pass Prop 37: JOIN our team, DONATE to the campaign (every dollar counts!), and TELL YOUR FRIENDSto Vote Yes on 37!